Millions of pounds worth of new business is set to be secured by small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) following London City Airport’s Meet the Buyer and East London Business Summit, held on 30th November. The event, which was held at the London Stadium, connected over 150 SMEs to larger organisations and enabled them to learn about tender opportunities and build connections.

Former Apprentice winner and entrepreneur, Tim Campbell MBE, who grew up in East London, gave the keynote address, where he spoke to local SMEs about how to grow a business whilst overcoming common challenges faced by SMEs. Campbell was awarded the MBE for Enterprise Culture in the 2012 New Year’s Honours List and is the founder of his own entrepreneurial social enterprise, Bright Ideas Trust.

Buyers hosted in excess of 600 meetings with suppliers to discuss the work that the airport and other large, local businesses – including Canary Wharf Group and Tate & Lyle – will need completed in the upcoming months throughout their supply chain.

Tim Campbell MBE, said: “It’s fantastic to be part of London City Airport’s East London Business Summit and Meet the Buyer event, especially as I grew up in the area and overcame many of the challenges that have been discussed today, myself.”

“It’s a difficult climate for growing a business – and this year has been especially tough – so events like these, which bring SMEs, entrepreneurs and larger businesses together, are more important than ever.”

Wilma Allan, Chief Financial Officer, London City Airport, said: “We are proud to have hosted our fourth ‘Meet the Buyer’ event because supporting local SMEs and the local economy is important to us.

“In previous years the events have led to new work for local businesses, with last year’s event resulting in £5m worth of business deals, and we hope to see a similar result again this year.”

Suzi McCreedy, Chief Commercial Officer at UMi, said: “What an amazing day at London City Airport’s Meet the Buyer and East London Business Summit – packed with opportunities to develop relationships and win business from major buyers from across East London. With more than 600 sales appointments taking place in one day, the economic impact from this event is immense and a real boost to businesses.

“Working again with London City Airport and partners to develop the local supply chain, connecting local businesses with opportunities, improving their confidence, capability and competitiveness makes us really proud and it’s a perfect example of what UMi are all about – making it easier for business to do more and go further.”

Lloyd Johnson, Chairman of Newham Chamber of Commerce, said: “These events are so important in helping smaller businesses to build and make connections, and supports our mission to level-up the local area and deliver economic growth across East London.”